How to Prevent Common Types of Bicycle Accidents
The Twin Cities are known for having a high number of bicyclists. That is why knowing what the most common types of bicycle accidents are and how to prevent them is extremely important.
September 20, 2012
How to Prevent Common Types of Bicycle AccidentsThe Twin Cities are known for having a high number of bicyclists. That is why knowing what the most common types of bicycle accidents are and how to prevent them is extremely important.
According to the organization Bike Safe, many bicycle accidents happen when a motorist fails to stop at a traffic signal and hits a bicyclist riding through the intersection. Though we may visualize the motorist failing to see the bicyclist as the motorist completes a turn, this type of accident usually occurs when the driver and bicyclist intend to travel straight through the intersection.
A motorist failing to yield at a signalized intersection normally occurs because the driver is speeding and cannot stop in time for the light. In other instances, the driver may speed through the yellow light hoping to avoid the red light. Other times, the driver may simply not see the red light and drive through it.
Bicycle accidents can also occur when a driver fails to look. Drivers often fail to look when pulling out from a driveway or alley. Compounding the situation, the visibility of the driver may be obscured by bushes, trees, parked cars, or buildings. Moreover, if the driver is in a hurry, he or she may simply forget to look before pulling out.
In other instances, a driver may fail to look when completing a turn in an intersection and drive into the path of a bicyclist. A bicyclist can also be hit while riding next to a driver who fails to see them when changing lanes or if sufficient space is not given to the biker.
There are many ways to prevent bicycle accidents. Improved roadway lighting and street markings help drivers and bicyclists see each other. Motorists should be aware of bicycle traffic and look for bicyclists when making lane changes and turns just as they would for other traffic and pedestrians. Bicyclists should safeguard themselves by wearing helmets and by installing lights on their bicycles to be more visible to drivers.
Additionally, bicyclists should also ride with traffic and ride in the middle of the lane. This will help prevent possible collisions.
A bicyclist who is injured because of a motorist may be entitled to compensation. An experienced personal injury attorney can provide legal assistance in the obtainment of any available relief.
Article provided by Walsh & Gaertner, P.A.
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